The South Dakota Republican Party State Convention is the official gathering of Republican delegates from across the state to conduct party business, shape the future direction of the party, and nominate candidates for certain statewide offices. Delegates debate and vote on resolutions, consider changes to the party platform, elect party leadership when applicable, and select Republican nominees for constitutional offices that advance to the general election ballot. The convention also provides an opportunity for Republicans from every county to discuss issues, hear from party leaders, and help set the priorities of the South Dakota Republican Party.

South Dakota law provides that when more than one Republican candidate seeks nomination for certain statewide constitutional offices, those nominations are made by delegates at the South Dakota Republican Party State Convention rather than through the primary election. This process has been part of South Dakota’s election system for many years and is intended to allow elected delegates from across the state to select the party’s nominees for these important statewide offices.

For the 2026 convention, delegates will nominate Republican candidates for offices such as Attorney General, Secretary of State, State Auditor, State Treasurer, Public Utilities Commissioner, and Commissioner of School and Public Lands. Candidates may address delegates, participate in candidate forums, and campaign throughout the convention before voting takes place.

Delegates cast votes on behalf of their counties using the party’s proportional voting system. Candidates receiving the required support of convention delegates become the official Republican nominees and advance to the November General Election ballot.

See our full list of committees, click here.

The South Dakota Republican Party State Convention conducts its business using parliamentary procedure to ensure meetings are fair, orderly, and efficient. Unless otherwise provided by party bylaws, convention rules, or applicable law, proceedings are generally governed by Robert’s Rules of Order Newly Revised, the most widely used parliamentary authority in the United States.

Parliamentary procedure provides a structured process for delegates to make motions, debate issues, propose amendments, raise points of order, and vote on convention business. The Convention Chair presides over the proceedings, with assistance from the Convention Parliamentarian, who advises on procedural questions and the proper application of the rules.

In addition to Robert’s Rules, delegates should be aware that:

• South Dakota Republican Party Bylaws govern the organization and authority of the convention.
• Convention Rules, adopted by the delegates at the beginning of the convention, establish procedures specific to that year’s convention.
• South Dakota election laws govern nomination procedures and other legal requirements.

These authorities work together, with convention rules taking precedence over Robert’s Rules when they address a specific issue, provided they do not conflict with party bylaws or state law.

The South Dakota Republican Party State Convention is a formal business meeting of the party. Delegates are expected to conduct themselves in a respectful, professional, and courteous manner while participating in convention activities.

To ensure an orderly and productive convention, delegates should:

• Be properly credentialed and seated before participating in convention business.
• Follow the directions of the Convention Chair, convention staff, and volunteers.
• Wait to be recognized by the Chair before speaking from the convention floor.
• Direct all remarks to the Chair and avoid personal attacks or disruptive behavior.
• Respect the rights of fellow delegates to speak, debate, and express differing viewpoints.
• Follow adopted convention rules, party bylaws, and parliamentary procedures.
• Vote only when entitled to do so and according to the procedures established for the convention.
• Keep convention credentials visible and readily available when requested.
• Refrain from conduct that disrupts convention proceedings or interferes with the business of the convention.

The convention is an opportunity for Republicans from across South Dakota to discuss ideas, debate issues, and make important decisions for the party. While spirited debate is encouraged, delegates should remember that they are participating in a shared effort to strengthen the Republican Party and advance conservative principles.

Outside food and drink is strictly prohibited at The Monument where our convention will be held.  There are also guidelines for vendors and exhibitors.  Click here to read those.  All convention attendees wishing to eat at the convention must purchase food options PRIOR to attending.  Click here to register.